GENERIC NAME: METHENAMINE - ORAL (meth-EN-a-meen)

BRAND NAME(S): Hiprex, Mandelamine, Urex

USES: Methenamine is used to prevent or control returning urinary tract infections caused by certain bacteria. It is not used to treat an active infection. Other antibiotics must be used first to treat and cure the infection. Methenamine is an antibiotic that stops the growth of bacteria in urine. This medication also contains an ingredient that helps to make the urine acidic. When the urine is acidic, methenamine turns into formaldehyde to kill the bacteria.This antibiotic is effective only against bacterial infections in the urinary tract. It will not work for other types of bacterial infections (such as in the blood) or for viral infections (such as the common cold or flu). Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.